Sanctuary in Oxford: Hope in Times of Crisis

Curated by the University of Oxford’s Sanctuary Community and local charity Asylum Welcome, in collaboration with key partners, this exhibition celebrates the powerful spirit of welcome that defines Oxford’s sanctuary movement. It highlights the collective efforts to foster belonging, hope, and opportunity for people from displacement backgrounds, including refugees and asylum seekers, amidst the challenges of a hostile environment.

Through art, stories, and photographs, the display reveals the courage, creativity, and resilience of those who have found safety in Oxford. It also reflects the unity and compassion that underpin the city’s commitment to being a place of sanctuary, even in difficult times.

The exhibition encourages visitors to consider the part we can all play in building a community where everyone feels valued and supported. By showcasing these narratives, it reminds us that acts of empathy and solidarity, both large and small, can create meaningful change and strengthen the bonds that unite us all.